Northeastern State University receives historic $17 million gift to expand opportunities for students

TAHLEQUAH, Okla.— Northeastern State University has received an unprecedented $17 million unrestricted donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, marking it the largest gift in the university’s history. The gift will directly support NSU’s mission of providing access, advancing social mobility and preparing students to contribute to Oklahoma and beyond.

NSU serves a diverse and underserved student population: 35% of students are American Indian, 32% are first-generation college students and 45% come from a background of acute financial need. Nearly all graduates, 96%, remain in Oklahoma, fueling the state’s economy with NSU’s $500 million economic impact in 2024 alone.

“This transformative gift will allow NSU to expand academic programs, update facilities and create more opportunities for students to succeed and dream,” NSU President Rodney Hanley said. “It reflects the university’s commitment to social mobility, workforce readiness and service to the communities we call home.”

NSU is nationally recognized for student success and impact. The university ranks No.1 in the nation among 4-year public institutions for both enrollment and degrees conferred to American Indian students and is included in Washington Monthly’s 2025 Best-in-Class Colleges, placing among the top 25 four-year institutions nationwide. NSU’s designation as a Higher Access/Higher Earnings institution highlights its success in enrolling underrepresented students and ensuring graduates earn competitive wages.

According to Hanley, NSU students learn, lead and serve while preparing to transform lives and communities. Students engage deeply with their communities, from service-focused careers in teaching and social work to large-scale service-learning initiatives like the Big Event, benefiting Tahlequah, Muskogee and Broken Arrow.

The gift will be directed toward expanding academic innovation, improving student support, and upgrading facilities to meet the needs of a growing campus. Peggy Glenn, NSU Foundation executive director, said, “This historic gift amplifies NSU’s ability to invest in students, employees and the communities we serve.”

“This record-breaking donation acknowledges NSU’s transformative role in shaping lives, fostering social mobility and strengthening the economic and social fabric of Oklahoma,” Hanley said.

MacKenzie Scott’s foundation supports organizations that create lasting opportunities for underserved communities, focusing on institutions with proven impact, strong leadership and a record of sustained success.

NSU’s strong leadership and advocacy of SB 701 led to changing an antiquated state law and government overreach. The change in the law increases access to education throughout Oklahoma, providing more opportunities for students from disadvantaged backgrounds to achieve their dreams.

Northeastern has been changing the lives of students and their families since its doors opened in 1851 as the Cherokee National Female Seminary. “Northeastern is incredibly thankful for this gift and the validation of our work. Ms. Scott’s foundation trusts NSU’s Cabinet to utilize this gift to advance our mission and grow Oklahoma’s workforce,” Hanley said.

For media inquiries, please contact us at mabery@nsuok.edu.

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